Nice Zoo, especially for families and in the cooler weather. Although some of the cages seemed small for the animals inside, all looked healthy. Quite a variety of creatures inside and out. read more

See all

First time visiting Cameron Park Zoo - we had an excellent experience (middle of August in Texas is HOT). We found that many of the paths are shaded which is a great help. Some of the animals were sleeping, some are active, and all appear to be ok. Occasionally a loud bang like a cannon would go off - startled us the first few times - and we later found out that it was to scare off the vultures that was interfering with the exhibits. Suggestion - get familirize with the map of the zoo - the signage at the zoo can really be improved so we know which direction to go for the next exhibits of interest when we exit the one we in. My sense of direction is not the best - maps and signage is a real help. Worth another visit if the grandkids are interested. read more

Cameron Park Zoo - Black Bear - Zoos Near Me - Waco, Texas

Visited for the first time during spring break 2026. It's a nice zoo. Plenty of wildlife to admire, even with all the "remodeling " of some enclosures. I was surprised to see a Rhinoceros, and they had lions and a tiger. Super cool! However, I do wish the Cafe at the front entrance was open. My family and I were not aware that 90% of the "food" at the zoo was ice cream and cookies. We did find the food window next to the giraffes, and the lines were ridiculously long because it was the only sustainable food option. Also... the smell of giraffe poo did not compliment my burger. My burger bun was also inedible.. (see video). The zoo itself was pretty nice, and not too expensive. Definitely want to go back at some point. read more

Came to the zoo on Mothers Day as our tradition, and had a great time. The zoo had a great layout where it was all pretty much one direction, so you couldn't get lost, which was great for us. All the animals were active when we were here, about 1-3:30, definitely a great time to come. Wish we knew about the animal encounters, definitely will try one of them next time. Also can bring in your own reusable water bottles, there's refill stations everywhere around the park. read more

See all

122/2024 Late review!! My sister and I visited my son and his family in Waco , Texas and got to see this beautiful Zoo. It is a place where truly the whole family can enjoy to see their favorite animals. My favorite was the Giraffe. I was able to see it upclose at its face!!! An upper deck gave that opportunity to experience this encounter. You can get membership here too for unlimted admissions to the park!! A lot of walking to see different animals on site. I will sure come back to see this park! read more

2026 - No longer the zoo it once was. One of the elephants died in 2020 (age 40), the other in 2025 along with a sumatran tiger. The rhino passed in 2024 (age 43). The black bear died in 2024 of kidney cancer. There's now a camel and an ostrich, but they weren't out. The zoo has been taken over by hundreds, if not thousands of vultures, they're in every tree and populate every empty exhibit. The vultures moved in when a nearby roost was disturbed by construction noise, and they can't get rid of them because they're federally protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The sidewalks are soiled with buzzard poop. Cameron Park Zoo used to be worth the 3-hour round trip drive, but not anymore. It's really gone downhill since our last visit (2022). read more

We've visited this zoo twice now, and both times have been generally positive experiences. It's a cute place--clean, nicely laid out, and clearly maintained with care. Most of the animals appeared healthy and well-cared for, and the staff we encountered were friendly and helpful. That said, I do want to mention a couple of things that left us feeling uneasy. On both visits, the bear seemed noticeably distressed--pacing so repetitively that you could see the exact path worn into the mud. It was a nearly identical scene to our first visit, where it paced alongside the clicking electric fence. It's one of those moments that really makes you pause and question the animal's quality of life. It truly bothered my family. If it's a medical condition, perhaps there could be some kind of signage explaining that for those who stop to watch. If not, maybe it's time to consider whether this is really the best environment for that animal. Also, on our most recent trip, the young orangutan seemed much more subdued compared to our last visit. Previously, it had been playful and engaging, but this time it sat quietly with its face pressed against the glass in a seemingly unchanged enclosure (no visibly new enrichment). It could've just been an off moment, but the way it looked back at people really made us all, not just my family, reflect on the ethics behind captivity. Zoos can be hit or miss depending on timing and the animals' moods, but I truly hope this zoo continues to prioritize the well-being of every creature in its care. read more

Cameron Park Zoo - Zoos Near Me - Waco, Texas

If I could give zero stars I would. There was a few things that really upset me. The bear exhibit was extremely sad. The bear was pacing back and forth and was foaming at the mouth. There was dead fish in the ponds. The water for the animals to swim in was green and you could see through it in the glass. Definitely don't know why anyone would think this zoo is great and makes me question that the people giving this place 5 stars have ever been to another zoo or are being paid for their review. The parking is very easy, the tickets to get in are affordable, and the indoor exhibits had AC but those are the only two things I would give 5 stars to. read more

Beautiful zoo for family, especially the little ones. The park is well spread out and interesting paths to explore. Plenty of parking available as well. read more

See all

This was one of the best zoo visit I've had, ever. Most of the animals are out because of the perfect weather that day except for the bears because their enclosure is over run by wild vultures. It will say at the entrance too if the wild vultures are back or not. Assuming they just come and go as they please. Smaller than our DFW zoo but it's definitely worth the visit. Perfectly laid out so you won't miss anything. Bathrooms are well taken care off and animals seemed happy and well taken care off as well. Definitely recommend if you have kids who likes animals or just like me who is a kid at heart. read more

See all

Every time I go, there are vultures camping out everywhere. The bear cage is literally green and slimy and vulture feathers floating in it. We might should rename the zoo Vulture Park Zoo. It used to be nice, they've got to figure out a way to keep it clean and shoo off the vultures. It's disgusting! read more

A zoo with exercise benefits is waiting for you at Cameron Park Zoo. March perhaps is a pleasant time to go, as it isn't too hot. Put on your walking shoes and look forward to spending between 4-6 hours observing animals' behaviors and some cute napping animals. Discover why animal conservation or rehab, especially of endangered species, is important. Into furry friends? Meet a few mammals in the felidae family close up (behind a glass), like cheetahs and lions. Get goosebumps over various reptiles. Learn about different species in the class of aves, like vultures and parrots. Chase fishes of all sorts; ones you don't eat. Fall in love with the colors of the tropical fish. Then ask yourself... are you watching them or are they watching yoooouuu? read more

See all

A day at the zoo Weather was nice Animals were all out Not too crowded Enjoyed seeing all the different types read more

See all

Great zoo. Well maintained, and the animals were all out and active. Parking is limited, and had to park in an overflow lot. Not too long of a walk, and it was nice to see the police directing traffic and staying at the lots. Food options, and seating is limited, best to bring small snacks in. Loved seeing the animals all out, but check the listings of what they have before going. Some exhibits are currently closed, and some animals you might expect or hope to see may not be there. Overall worth the visit. read more

See all

My partner and I visited this zoo on a Saturday afternoon. I was prepared to be a little overwhelmed due to the zoos I visted being all over the place. I was highly mistaken. It was very easy to navigate, all of the animals were out and visible, and it gave more of an experience than some of the larger zoos. It's definitely a zoo catered to little ones. I highly recommend! read more

Cameron Park Zoo - Rhino - Zoos Near Me - Waco, Texas

It was a lot cleaner this time. Really enjoyed it. Perfect size zoo. The animals were playful for the most parton this beautiful day. The vultures were expected but did not seem to be out and about as much as last time. read more

Hands down one of the best zoos I have ever done. The layout of this zoo was well thought out, I loved that you just followed the path & you don't miss a single exhibit. We enjoyed ourselves very much, great day date outing. read more

See all

It is confusing once you get in. There are maps in the zoo but they don't have on there " you are here" Found one concession stand saying they had popcorn but when asked was told no they didn't have any. In fact we missed a lot of the animals. Went into the gift shop and thought no one was in there but there was one person sitting behind counter reading. Never greeted us at all. read more

Best zoo in Central Texas and easily rivals many zoos in bigger cities around the country! So proud this is in our backyard. Such a wonderful surprise nestled in Cameron Park. Has a quaint but magical playground with a fun, little splash pad perfect for littles, and fun interactive spots for kids along the way. All the animals are worth a visit but our favorites are the orangutans, the gibbons, the tortoises, and the giraffes! If you're visiting Waco with little ones (or without!), the zoo's worth a visit! The season pass is also an incredible value! read more

See all

We went for the Christmas lights. The price was 15 per adult. The zoo is a lot more condensed due to the animals' bed times. I don't know if 15 per was worth it but got to pay for the display somehow. Santa was there. Food trucks were there to get hamburgers, coffee, and hot cocoa. The zoo sold beer and wine. Very crowded. Really great time. read more

We love our local zoo! Great price and lots of family fun. We're sad we missed out on seeing the penguins, but the exhibit opens this week, so we'll be back! read more

See all

Bought season passes for my kids and their families. Went yesterday and I was so disappointed. Things were run down. Multiple exhibits not open. Over all disappointed. Summertime everything should be ready. read more

The vultures have ruined the experience for us. We always took visiting family members to the zoo the show it off. Over the years the vultures have gotten out of control with pooping everywhere and the smell is horrible!! Near the coastal water bird exhibit we actually ran under the netting to an indoor space to avoid the poop raining down on our heads!! I understand the "explanation" of why they are there and the limitations to dealing with them but maybe something alternatives should be explored more fervently...several people commenting they wouldn't be back. At this point I don't think paying admission to avoid poop on the head as something I will be continuing to do. The smell takes your breathe away please do something!!! read more

For our first true family outing in a year we wanted something outside, with stuff to see, and something fun for the kids. We settled on the Cameron Zoo.. and it was a great choice! The zoo is not huge but it is well done... almost intimate... and was perfect for our first outing in a year. The animals were active. So many zoos I have been too where nothing is moving. Here it seemed like everything was active... it was great to see! Snakes were slithering... tigers were pacing, the giraffe was strutting, even the monkeys were playing. It was great to see more then just sleeping animals. The zoo is well maintained, the walking areas are shaded, there are a couple of places to get "snacks" and we all truly enjoyed it. A couple of draw backs... people who think they don't need to wear masks and they need more staff at the snack areas. Things moved very very slow. However the over all cost was good for the experience. We all truly enjoyed it! read more

Cameron Park Zoo - Zoos Near Me - Waco, Texas

See all

We love this zoo, it's the perfect amount for Toddlers. It's a nice circle path to enjoy all the animals. There is a great variety of animals and they are always doing updates and making renovations. We like to enjoy a lunch here with our daughter and check out all the animals. On our recent visit they added the electric riding animals that you can rent and ride around the zoo, looked really cute, might try it next time. There's always plenty of parking here as well. read more

What a hidden gem!!! We were told about Cameron Park after friends visited & knew we had to check it out. We went on a Thursday and had no trouble finding parking or getting in. We were reminded earlier in the morning more of the animals are out & they didn't disappoint! We saw everything but the orangutans (which were off exhibit for the day). There was Zoo staff around who answered all our questions, allowed us to watch them feed a handful of the animals & were so kind in helping us when we got turned around . After we'd seen it all (about 2-2.5hrs) we grabbed our lunches from the car & enjoyed them just inside the park entrance at the picnic tables. Our kids are still talking about this Zoo months after we visited - all of us can't wait to go again! read more

See all

It was a beautiful day weather wise, the zoo is on the smaller size and many attractions & sections were closed for maintenance. I would not go to this zoo again. It's fine for children under 7 years of age. read more

When you have a family discount listed on your web site (half-price admission for 2 guests with purchase of one at full price), you should honor that, even when the family that shows up is 2 people. My wife was told this morning that she had to buy 2 half-price admissions for our daughter. That's not a discount at all. This was confirmed by the guest manager, both to her in person and to me on the phone shortly afterwards. UPDATED: While the guest experience manager's actions here were not acceptable, I had a fantastic interaction with the Zoo Director today, that has restored my confidence in our local zoo. Certainly room to improve, but the zoo itself is a nice experience and I won't hold the animals to blame for some customer service work that could be done. So it's a 4-star review from me on this. read more

This place is amazing for the family, and thankfully lots of shade lol. The new penguin exhibit was amazing . I was surprised how many they actually had. I'm so glad we have a membership. read more

Our family loves Cameron Park Zoo! It's well maintained, the staff are friendly, and animals seem well taken care of. read more

Cameron Park Zoo - Zoos Near Me - Waco, Texas

If you've never been to this amazing little zoo you must go. Also, you MUST get the Funnel Fries. They're incredible. The funnel fries alone are worth admission. The zoo is incredible and these fries make it even more incredible!!!! Lol. Who would've thought?!?! Funnel fries are the star of the show at the CPZ! Great zoo! Great funnel fries! read more

Cameron Park Zoo - Funnel fries - Zoos Near Me - Waco, Texas

This place was possibly the best zoo I've been too! I didn't like how some animals were hidden behind a membership, such as the penguins, but I still got to see some cool animals, and I've seen some that I've never even seen before, such as a two headed snake, and yes...that exists. The two headed snake also had a broken neck, and the employees put up a sign that said it had a broken neck, and that it was going through recovery. In its glass cage, there was a hole in the wall where one of the heads was put in to rest, and I appreciate the fact that they actually care for their animals and heal them when they are in need! And don't listen to those one star reviews saying that their cages were too small and that they should be in nature, each cage, display case, and aquarium was massive, and just right for each animal there. read more

Cameron Park Zoo - Zoos Near Me - Waco, Texas

I visited with my family yesterday and these animals are not being cared for. The bears enclosure was FULL of birds, Hundreds of them with nothing to keep them out and no activities for it. No balls, no logs, no grass, nothing for stimulation he was just pacing back and forth as were most of the other animals it was very sad to see. The otters water was filthy you could not even see them in the water. The list goes on but we left there feeling terrible it wasn't a happy visit read more

The hubs and I were in Waco (TX) yesterday so we visited their zoo. Patrick knows I love (good, well maintained) zoos so he suggested we go. We were through the gates first thing in the morning (9am) knowing the animals are hungry and more energetic those times of days. They have a lot of birds, some reptiles and a lot of fish. All these creatures were well taken care of and their homes were very clean. Also, their surroundings were full of pretty vegetation that provided them plenty of shade for those hot summer months. Something that is not often seen in zoos is running water. This zoo had little creeks and waterfalls all over the place. So pretty! I do have two problems with Cameron Park Zoo. Other than the birds, fish and reptiles, we saw one elephant, one lion and one cheetah. That's it, so that was a let down. And less important, they have a couple vending machines in the zoo but no snack bars. Yesterday was hot and I was looking for soda in a glass with ice so it would stay colder longer. I know that's being picky but it's what I wanted. Anyway, Cameron Park Zoo is a nice zoo, just more large mammals please. :) P.S. - this zoo has a TON of restrooms! That's nice. :) read more

Cameron Park Zoo - Zoos Near Me - Waco, Texas

See all

We had a great time at the Zoo with our 1 year old. Lots to see & very spacious park! We can't wait to go back in a few months to play on the playscape! read more

Cameron Park Zoo - Tiger! - Zoos Near Me - Waco, Texas

See all

Maybe it's the off-season, abundant hibernating, too cold?? But we visited this zoo early January and were quite disappointed. There were hardly any animals to see. One lion, one orangutan, one of pretty much everything. A lot of the zoo was under construction of closed. Price is right, if there were animals to be seen. The kids loved running around and slept well that night, so there's a plus? read more

Always a fun spot to take your kids or even to go as adults. Everyone that works here is so friendly. It's a fun out door environment and they has indoor areas to stay cool in during the summer! read more

See all

Beautiful location. Great selection of wildlife. Will definitely stop in the next time I'm in the area.

This zoo is so much fun and great for little ones. They have a clear slide that goes through their otter exhibit, an adorable playground and all the animals are easy to be seen close up! We visited once and bought the membership, which was really reasonably priced. read more

See all

Only a heartless, sociopathic person would support this place. We had no idea what it was like until we visited and were appalled to find their poor elephant is in solitary confinement!! What a horrendous site it is!!! We told the staff about the situation and they were rude and heartless about it. (At least they could have paid us lip-service and then gone back to their animal cruelty but nope! We looked it up online and found out that this is well-documented and that the facility doesn't care at all! Tembo is a very lonely female African elephant currently held captive at the Cameron Park Zoo in Waco, Texas, where she is living a completely solitary existence, which is one of the most harmful things we can do to these incredibly social animals. Tembo must be moved to an accredited elephant sanctuary where she will know the companionship of other elephants. Tembo was captured in the wild in 1979 and has endured the last 43 years with only intermittent social bonds. She's been forced into solitude since her companion Tanya died in 2020 and is being kept alone without a companion in violation of standards set by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums that require social groups of at least three female elephants. Following Tanya's death, the Cameron Park Zoo indicated it may explore other options for placing Tembo, but still states its self-serving rhetoric that, "It is in Tembo's best interest to stay in her home among familiar surroundings and her herd of people that love and care for her." So, with this blithe statement, it would seem that the zoo wants people to believe that the comforting understanding of her own species has been successfully replaced by a "herd" of humans. Don't buy it. It's a poor consolation prize for a sad and lonely elephant. read more